Chapter 2 Word Choice
123
diffuse/defuse, stress/distress
Let's be sure you have "diffuse" and "defuse" straight.
"Diffuse" means to spread.
v
The photog used a screen to DIFFUSE the light.
"Defuse" means to remove danger or to make less tense or hostile.
v
The negotiator tried to DEFUSE the situation with a calming
voice.
And if you're in a quandary about when to use "stress" and when to
use "distress," the next part of today's lesson is for you.
"Stress" is mental, emotional, even physical strain.
The word "stress" comes partly from the shortening of the word
"distress" and partly from the Old French word "estresse," meaning
"narrowness."
"Distress," then, is stronger than "stress," not surprisingly.
It's about state of mind, but it goes deeper than "stress."
Synonyms are suffering, misery, and agony.
"Distress" is being in great trouble, in great physical or mental strain,
or under great stress.
The difference between STRESS and DISTRESS is a matter of
degree.
v
The STRESS of the long day of anchoring from the field showed
in her face.
v
To look into the faces of those whose family members perished
is to see DISTRESS.
Mrs. B hopes the worst you suffer today is a little STRESS here and
there, which maybe some deep breathing will DEFUSE.
